Ecological Surveys: Habitats and Species
The UK has a rich biodiversity, with particular species of plants and animals being protected through legislation such as the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010, the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 and others.
As well as species-specific protection, there is also protection afforded to key habitats designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest, National Nature Reserves, Special Protection Areas, Ramsar sites or Special Areas of Conservation across the UK.
Wildlife management and conservation is not just about protection. The wider landscape ecology approach is essential to the integrity and long-term viability of populations and habitats that, if protected only in isolation, will be adversely affected.
National policy on the protection of biodiversity and geological conservation through the planning system requires specific recognition of this wider ecological mosaic of habitat networks is made, often through the provison and enhancement of green infrastructure.
The need to ensure appropriate ecological surveys are carried out, and robust Ecological Impact Assessments made, are key principles of successful species and habitat protection.
Brighton - based Urban Edge Environmental Consulting provides general and specialist surveys for a broad range of species and habitat types. We prepare Ecology chapters for EIA, undertake standalone Ecological Impact Assessments, devise ecological design and mitigation solutions, and provide habitat management and restoration advice.
Our team has carried out ecological surveys and assessments for renewable energy projects, industrial developments, retail schemes, road transport projects, and mixed use and residential developments.